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Reds sign local boy McGowan

Adelaide United FC is delighted to officially announce the signing of Dylan McGowan from Heart of Midlothian.

Adelaide United FC is delighted to officially announce the signing of Dylan McGowan from Heart of Midlothian.

McGowan arrived in Adelaide on Wednesday, where he successfully completed a routine medical, has put pen to paper on a deal with the Reds for the next two seasons.

The 22 year old comes to the Reds having spent the last six seasons contracted to the Hearts, where he made 64 senior appearances for the Edinburgh based club.

McGowan left Adelaide as a 17 year old where he signed for Hearts in 2008, following his older brother Ryan to Scotland. McGowan was sent on loan by then manager Jim Jefferies to Scottish Second Division club East Fife in December 2010. On his return he was awarded a new two-year contract, extending his stay until 2013. However, in June 2011, he joined the now defunct Gold Coast United on a season long loan.

In early-2013 he signed a one-year extension, but due to the club going into administration he was recently released. His older brother Ryan has already departed Hearts where he joined Chinese outfit Shandong Luneng back in January 2013.

Signing a 2-year contract, the Adelaide born defender is very keen to make a new start to his career.

“I enjoyed my time at Hearts and after spending six years away from home, I knew the time was right,” said McGowan.

“Being an Adelaide boy, I’ve always been an Adelaide fan so I paid close attention to the team. Last season I watched a lot of games where the coaching and playing staff were really exciting and bringing a new brand of football to the club, I just wanted to be a part of it.”

McGowan explained that the style of the club and football played was a big factor for his return home.

“Gomabu’s style and philosophy that he brought in is widely praised and it’s one of the main reasons I signed. And the league as a whole is improving. It’s on par with Scotland and probably playing better football. So as soon as the opportunity arose, it was a pretty easy decision.”

McGowan’s versatility means he can play full-back, centre-back and midfield ¬– an attribute that Coach Josep Gomabu is excited to work with.

“He is a strong, athletic and young player with good experience in Europe and at an international level,” said Gombau from Spain.

“I know he can help us in our back four as well as in midfield. He’s a well-rounded player, which isn’t always easy to find.

“We are also bringing back home a South Australian player, which follows our vision in having SA players playing for Adelaide United.”

McGowan will meet his new teammates when he commences pre-season on 16 June.

Dylan John McGOWAN
Date of Birth 6 August 1991 (age 22)
Place of Birth Adelaide, Australia
Position Defender